All newly assigned military, civilians and their family members are invited to the Newcomers Orientation to learn about the Fort Belvoir community programs and services. Free child care is available. Parents are asked to call for day care reservations. Refreshments will be provided. More information is available by calling 703 805-4590/5058/1150.

Online health care appointments

TRICARE Online is now available 24/7 for patients to scheduling appointments with providers. Appointments made online can also be changed, canceled or confirmed. Registration is easy for the family, with a Social Security number, the sponsor’s Social Security number, e-mail address, eight-character username and nine-character password. Appointments are available from www.tricare.mil. More information is available by calling 703-805-9239 or the helpdesk, 800-600-9332.

News from Fort Belvoir Vet Clinic

Pet owners on Fort Belvoir are encouraged to get the microchip implant for their pets. The microchip stores owners’ information which can be scanned by shelters if a lost pet is found. The cost is $25 for the chip. Appointments are available from the Vet Clinic, 703-805-4336.

Fort Belvoir Vet Clinic can no longer shelter strays. All strays found on Fort Belvoir are taken to Fairfax Animal Shelter, 4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax, 22030. The shelter’s Web site is www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/animalservices/ and the phone number is 703-830-1100. An animal with the pet microchip implant is kept in the shelter for 11 days for owners to claim. The shelter keeps non-microchipped animals for seven days.